Dengue fever cases in Central and South America have surged to a record high this year, nearly tripling compared to previous years, according to the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO).
As of Tuesday, over 12.6 million cases and 7,700 deaths have been reported, marking the largest outbreak in the region since records began in 1980.
Countries such as Brazil, Argentina, Colombia, and Mexico have been hit especially hard, accounting for the majority of cases and fatalities. Dengue, a mosquito-borne virus, can lead to serious illness or even death. Its symptoms include fever, severe headaches, pain behind the eyes, muscle and joint pain, and a blotchy rash. In more severe cases, individuals may experience stomach pain, vomiting, and blood in vomit or stool.
While some countries, like Honduras, plan to introduce vaccines in 2025, others have already begun distribution. PAHO is urging stronger mitigation efforts and enhanced regional cooperation to address the outbreak.
PAHO’s director, Dr. Jarbas Barbosa, explained that the surge in cases is largely due to the region’s hotter, wetter climate, which creates favorable conditions for mosquito breeding, as well as poor waste management and stagnant water around homes. He also emphasized that children are at a “higher-than-normal” risk, with 70% of dengue-related deaths in Guatemala involving children, and under-15s making up more than a third of severe cases in Mexico, Costa Rica, and Paraguay.
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that about half of the global population lives in areas at risk of contracting dengue, highlighting the widespread nature of the disease.
